Demdike Stare

The Fleece, Bristol | November 15th

After arriving at midnight to a half empty Fleece for leftfield duo Demdike Stare’s show, it instantly transpired that this was going to be an interesting way to spend a Friday night.

The first thing that struck us was the presence of Bristol gig stalwart Big Jeff. Does this say something about the bleeding together of beat-orientated line-ups and the live music scene that seems to be occurring? Is it because the wall of noise that Demdike Stare summon up is only a degree of separation away from those spewed forth by the likes of Wolf Eyes and My Bloody Valentine? Is it just because it’s at The Fleece? Who knows. Either way, it’s good to see him at the front.

After catching the end of ∞compounds’ excellent ambient warmup, we’re immediately flung into the heavy rhythmic workouts of Ambiotics’ live set. Consisting almost exclusively of pummelling syncopated percussion and short, pained stabs, it’s a potent statement of intent from the Room 237 resident, but one that’s quickly cast aside when Demdike take to the stage. Standing metres apart with a chasm of computers and gear between them, Sean Canty and Miles Whittaker proceed to layer noise, upon noise, upon noise; obscuring fragments of percussion and melody deep inside for an extended drone which swells for a portion of time between 20 and 30 minutes.

At some point, the sounds coalesce into a rhythm, but dance floor functionality is not the intention at this point. Noise quickly overwhelms again, until, as if finally making a break for freedom, a snarling jungle track pummels through, unlocking all the pent-up energy of the now full (dance)floor. It’s a hell of an experience, and one that in hindsight makes complete sense in this sacred gig venue.

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Words: Steve Dores